Soldiers tackle danger rally

A SOLDIER blown up in Afghanistan and a triple amputee Para are leading a brave new assault — on the world's most gruelling and dangerous rally.

Driver Captain Tony Harris and co-driver Corporal Tom Neathway will be backed by a dedicated group of wounded and disabled servicemen when they tackle next year's Dakar Rally.

And before that the unbowed squad — known as the Race2Recovery team — will take part in a host of off-road rallies this year to prepare for the ultimate challenge of a 9,000km, 14-day blast across the daunting deserts of South America.

They aim to "inspire the wider disabled community to realise their goals".

And in the process they will raise money for the Sun-backed Help For Heroes charity, with funds going to the Tedworth House rehab centre for injured forces personnel in Wiltshire.

The team, driving specially-adapted Qt Wildcat 4x4 machines, are mounting a four-car attack on the Dakar.

Only 40 per cent of the rally's entrants usually finish the event, making it an immense challenge even for able-bodied crews.

It has also seen several fatal accidents over the years.

But the Race2Recovery lads are used to staring mortal danger in the face.